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Chicago Marathon 2025: The Ultimate Guide to Tracking Runners and a an Live-Action-Packed Experience

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Introduction

The Bank of America Chicago Marathon is an electrifying event that unites runners and spectators from across the globe. As over 45,000 participants prepare to take on the city’s iconic 26.2-mile course, their friends, family, and fans are gearing up for a day of cheering and tracking. This guide provides you with all the essential information to follow the action of the 2025 Chicago Marathon, whether you’re on the sidelines or supporting from afar. From live tracking tools to the best viewing spots and broadcast details, we’ve got you covered for an unforgettable marathon experience.

The 2025 Bank of America Chicago Marathon: All You Need to Know

The 47th Bank of America Chicago Marathon is set for Sunday, October 12, 2025. This prestigious event, one of the six Abbott World Marathon Majors, will see tens of thousands of runners embark on a journey through 29 of Chicago’s vibrant neighborhoods.

Race Day Schedule:

  • Marathon Wheelchair Start (Men): 7:20 a.m. (Central Daylight Time)
  • Marathon Wheelchair Start (Women): 7:21 a.m. (CDT)
  • Handcycle Start: 7:23 a.m. (CDT)
  • Wave 1 Start: 7:30 a.m. (CDT)
  • Wave 2 Start: 8:00 a.m. (CDT)
  • Wave 3 Start: 8:35 a.m. (CDT)

How to Track Runners: Stay Connected with Every Stride

Spectators have several options for tracking their favorite runners throughout the race. The official Bank of America Chicago Marathon App, Powered by TCS, is the most comprehensive tool. Available for both iOS and Android, the app offers:

  • Live Runner Tracking: Follow multiple runners in real-time as they cross checkpoints at the 5K, 10K, 15K, 20K, halfway point, 25K, 30K, 35K, and 40K marks, as well as the finish line.
  • Interactive Course Map: Visualize the runner’s progress along the scenic route.
  • Live Stream: Watch the official race broadcast directly within the app.
  • Leaderboard: Keep up with the elite race and top age-group performers.

For those who prefer a web-based option, the official Chicago Marathon website will host a live results page, offering real-time tracking and a leaderboard.

Navigating the Course: A Tour of Chicago’s Neighborhoods

The Chicago Marathon route is renowned for being flat and fast, offering a fantastic tour of the city. The race begins and ends in the historic Grant Park. From there, the course takes runners north along LaSalle Street, through Lincoln Park, and up to the Sheridan Road turnaround. The journey then heads south through diverse neighborhoods like Old Town, River North, and the West Loop, before reaching Pilsen and Chinatown. The final stretch brings runners up Michigan Avenue, with a triumphant finish on Columbus Drive.

Key vantage points for spectators:

  • Near the Start (Miles 1-3): Find a spot on Grand Avenue between Columbus Drive and State Street, or anywhere along State Street for an early glimpse of the runners.
  • Mid-Race Excitement (Miles 8 and 13.1): The intersection of Broadway and Diversey Parkway offers a lively atmosphere. To catch runners at the halfway point, head to the corner of Franklin and Adams Street.
  • Cultural Hubs (Miles 19 and 21): Experience the vibrant energy of Pilsen around 18th Street and Halsted, followed by the colorful sights and sounds of Chinatown at Cermak Road and Wentworth Avenue.
  • The Final Push (Mile 26): Position yourself on Roosevelt Road between Michigan Avenue and Columbus Drive to cheer on the runners as they tackle the final incline before the finish line.

The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) will offer enhanced services on race day, making it the most convenient way to navigate the city and catch your runner at various points along the course.

How to Watch the Chicago Marathon: Live Broadcast and Streaming

For those unable to attend in person, there are multiple ways to tune into the live action.

  • Local Television: In the Chicago area, NBC 5 Chicago and Telemundo Chicago will provide live coverage from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m. CDT.
  • Live Stream: The broadcast will be streamed live on nbcchicago.com, telemundochicago.com, and the NBC 5 and Telemundo Chicago apps. The stream will be available from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. CDT.
  • National and International Viewing: Peacock will offer a live stream of the event. International viewers can tune in through various broadcast partners, including FloSports in Canada and Eurosport in many European countries.

FAQ

1. What is the best way to track a runner in the Chicago Marathon? The official Bank of America Chicago Marathon App is the most recommended method. It provides live tracking with split times, an interactive course map, and a live stream of the race.

2. What time does the Chicago Marathon start? The first wave of runners begins at 7:30 a.m. CDT. The wheelchair and handcycle divisions start slightly earlier, at 7:20 a.m. and 7:23 a.m. CDT, respectively.

3. Can I see the runners at the start and finish line? Spectator access to the immediate start and finish areas in Grant Park is restricted for security reasons. The best viewing spots are along the course and at designated cheer zones.

4. What is the 2025 Chicago Marathon route? The course starts and finishes in Grant Park, winding through 29 neighborhoods. It heads north along the lakefront, loops back through the city center, and ventures through the west and south sides before returning to the finish on Columbus Drive.

5. How can I watch the Chicago Marathon live if I’m not in Chicago? You can watch the live stream on Peacock, nbcchicago.com, or through international broadcast partners like FloSports and Eurosport.

Conclusion + CTA

The 2025 Bank of America Chicago Marathon promises a day of incredible athletic achievement and community spirit. Whether you are cheering from the bustling streets of Chicago or the comfort of your home, this guide will help you stay connected to every moment of the race.

Ready for race day? Download the official Chicago Marathon app now to set up your runner tracking and get ready to cheer!

References / Sources

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